Firas Zahabi Explains the Real Reason Usman Thought He Beat Dricus Du Plessis

Sports Event Recap: Kamaru Usman vs. Dricus du Plessis (UFC)

Du Plessis’s comeback and durability

Firas Zahabi argues that Dricus du Plessis delivered an “epic comeback” against Kamaru Usman. He maintains that Usman was not “washed” despite the loss, explaining that Usman was hurt multiple times and that the fight looked as though it could end early.

Key turning threats (head kick history)

Zahabi points to du Plessis trying to recreate a sticky head-kick moment from Leon Edwards vs. Usman. He notes that Usman caught some of it with his wrist/forearm, but du Plessis still landed partially around the neck/ears/face, leading to frightening moments.

Stunning moments and Usman’s memory

Zahabi claims Usman was rocked/stunned several times—estimating “three or four even maybe five.” He adds that during a stretch when he thought Usman might be stopped, Usman was still affected by the damage. Zahabi also explains that after getting stunned, fighters often experience gaps in memory, which can make them look confused when hearing official scorecards.

Round-by-round outcome / scorecards

When the cards were read, Usman reportedly looked confused at “50–45.” Zahabi says he had the same result—50–45, with every round going to du Plessis.

Mid-fight and final survival (Round 5)

Zahabi highlights that by Round 3, he personally thought Usman was done, yet Usman made it to Round 5—showing durability and “steel.” He also says Usman fought hard late and nearly stole Round 5, though Zahabi believes du Plessis still won.

Most significant technical moments (Rounds 1–4)

• Round 1: Zahabi says du Plessis landed three very strong right hands.
• Rounds 2–4: Zahabi says du Plessis landed straight knees to the face, which “really rocked Usman.”
• Rounds 2–4: He also notes du Plessis landed a head kick through the guard—not a fully clean head kick, but one that got through Usman’s arm and partially struck the neck/head, causing visible wobbling.

Fight style and control

Zahabi describes the bout as active and non-boring, with both fighters performing well. He emphasizes, however, that du Plessis repeatedly caught Usman and landed more decisive impacts.

Final assessment

Zahabi concludes that du Plessis “won every round,” looked masterful, and is “back in the winner’s circle.” He describes du Plessis as looking like a contender again, with potential future matchups discussed afterward.

Presenters / Sources

• Firas Zahabi